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Kits United Kingdom - World War 2

Published 13-Feb-2017

1/56 (28mm) Rubicon Allies 2½ ton 6x6 Cargo Truck US6 U3/4

By Martyn Chorlton

Rubicon Models US6 Cargo Truck in 1/56 (28mm)

1/56 (28mm) Rubicon Allies 2½ ton 6x6 Cargo Truck US6 U3/4

219,882 Studebaker US6 2½ ton 6x6 and 5 ton 6x4 trucks were built during the Second World War, a large proportion (152,000 inc. all 6x6s) of them for service in the Soviet Union under Lend-Lease. The versatile US6 was used by the Soviets for towing artillery pieces anti-tank guns as well as its primary role as a general transport which was also ideal for troops. There were 13 variants of US, this kit from Rubicon Models represents the long wheelbase U3 (REO Motor Car Company-built) and U4, the latter differing by having a winch installed in front of the radiator. Nicknamed the ‘Studer’ by Soviet troops, the US6 was even praised by Stalin who wrote a thank you letter to the Studebaker Corporation for producing such a sturdy, reliable truck which was instrumental in the Red Army’s victory over the Germans.

All 34 parts for this kit are held on two sprues, supported by a comprehensive set of decals which can be used to represent the truck in Soviet or US service. Instructions are a four-page A5 booklet which takes you through five stages of the build. Stage 3 presents the option to build the US6 with a canvas canopy while Stage 4 includes the option to build a US3 or US4 variant. A standard metal drop sided truck complete with tailgate can also be built.

While 1/56 models are primarily pitched at the wargamer, these lovely, detailed multi-option kits would keep the scale modeller happy as well and Rubicon have clearly recognised that and filled the void. A highly recommended addition to your military vehicle collection or your wargame army.

Thanks very much to Rubicon Models for supplying this kit to Military Modelling.